sweethearts informally crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find all the possible solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "sweethearts informally". Whether you're stuck or just verifying an answer, we've got you covered with answers organized by letter count.
Solutions for "sweethearts informally crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
BEAUS: An informal term for a woman's male admirer or boyfriend, often with a slightly old-fashioned charm.
BABES: A highly informal and casual term of endearment, often used to refer to a romantic partner.
DATES: Referring to a person with whom one has a romantic appointment, or simply a regular romantic partner.
6 Letters
LOVERS: While it can be a formal term, 'lovers' is also used informally to describe romantic partners, especially in casual conversation.
8 Letters
DARLINGS: A common and affectionate informal term of endearment for sweethearts or beloved individuals.
More About "sweethearts informally crossword clue"
The clue "sweethearts informally" often appears in crosswords to test your vocabulary of colloquialisms and terms of endearment. 'Informally' is the key here, signaling that the answer won't be a formal dictionary definition but rather a word or phrase used in everyday, casual speech. This type of clue requires you to think beyond standard synonyms and delve into common parlance.
Words like BEAUS, BABES, and DARLINGS all fit this informal description, evoking different nuances of affection and relationship status. Crossword setters love these types of clues because they can have multiple plausible answers depending on the exact context or the constructor's preferred synonym for informal terms. Always consider the letter count first, then the most common informal uses of the word.
Understanding the informal aspect of a clue is crucial. It helps you rule out more formal or less emotionally charged synonyms, guiding you toward answers that truly capture the spirit of 'sweethearts' in a relaxed, everyday setting.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Pay Attention to Qualifiers: Words like "informally," "briefly," "roughly," or "familiarly" are crucial. They tell you to look for slang, abbreviations, or common usage rather than strict definitions.
- Consider Emotional Context: For clues involving relationships or feelings, think about terms of endearment or casual descriptors that convey the implied emotion, like affection in the case of "sweethearts."
- Think About Sound and Puns: Sometimes, informal clues can rely on homophones or clever wordplay. If you're stuck, try saying the clue aloud or thinking of phrases that sound similar to potential answers.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters filled in from intersecting words, use them as strong hints. They often narrow down the possibilities significantly, especially for shorter informal terms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'informally' mean in a crossword clue?
In crossword clues, 'informally' indicates that the answer is a casual, colloquial, slang, or non-standard term rather than a formal or dictionary definition. It signals that you should think about how a word is used in everyday conversation rather than its strict academic meaning.
How do I find synonyms for informal terms?
To find synonyms for informal terms, consider the context and tone of the clue. Think about common slang, terms of endearment, or casual expressions that fit the letter count. Online thesauri often have sections for informal or colloquial synonyms, which can be very helpful.
Are 'sweethearts' and 'lovers' always interchangeable?
While 'sweethearts' and 'lovers' can sometimes refer to the same romantic relationship, they often carry different connotations. 'Sweethearts' typically implies a more innocent, affectionate, or long-term romantic partner. 'Lovers' can be more ambiguous, sometimes suggesting a relationship that is passionate or not necessarily acknowledged publicly, or it can simply be a direct synonym for romantic partners. In crosswords, 'informally' can help narrow down the intended nuance.